What I learned from my time in New York City

Since I was 17, I've had a love affair with a city -  New York City.  I know that sounds ridiculous, but it's the truth.  I return there fairly frequently and seemingly it's often enough but not too often.  The  city's never lost it's magic.  It's a great place!

I sojourned there last week --- lived large for a few days.  I'll spare the detail of the who, what, when, where and why - but here's a few things I learned:

1.  Make time for the people that mean something:  I've lots of friends in the city and as busy as I was, I made time for them all ... I was so glad to see Lisa, Gabi, Hilary, Hilton, Darren and their friends.  Yeah, I could have not told them I'd be in their city, but hey, people can make a city too.  We hung out - had fun and re-connected

2.  The love you make is equal to the love you take, or said another way - share the love - Tough to understand sometimes, but true everytime.   Again, will spare the deets.

3.  Know what's on your bucket list - and do something about it.  Crossing the Brooklyn Bridge on foot has been on my list for well - like 25 years --- I did it this time.  It is a magnificent structure connecting Brooklyn and Manhattan.  Majestic.  Takes like 30 minutes from shore to shore.  Well worth it and makes you appreciate architecture.   Completed in 1883 - yes, 1883, it's s a testament to mankind's genius.   Bet they didn't have today's technology then.

4.  Party hard.  Yup ... true every time and one of my maxims.  Hilton, Darren, Raphael and Alex ---- you know how to do that - damn well.  Never stop.  Keeps us all young.  Keeps us all thinking.

5.  Don't oversleep.  This is a biggie.  I know many people who insist on getting 9 hours of it a night, claiming they "need" it.  Disagree.  Try 7-8 - you'll be fine.  Yes, I know that sleep is important, but there's lots to do and accomplish irrespective of where you liver.  Go get 'em.

6.  Never forget your roots.  Walked past a record store by chance.  It's at 130 First Ave at 7th Street.  It's a throwback to the 70's and 80's.  Reminded me so much of my roots.  We met its owner, "Birdman" - (nickname that because he only eats chicken and turkey) - what a fascinating history he has.  He's closing this New York City landmark in the fall.  Don't miss a trip there - incredible.

7.  Be humble.  No more need be said.

Peace, love and understanding.